In simple words, electrification is the process of powering by electricity and, in many contexts, the introduction of such power by changing over from an earlier power source. As the world’s energy diet is changing, one witnesses an increasing adoption of electrification across industrial sectors. As they account for 53% of global consumption, electric motors are the number one application that is driving the adoption of electrification. Add to that the fact that AM can play a pivotal role in the development of electric motors, industrials are now seeking opportunities and solutions to improve cost, quality, reliability and performance, in both gravimetric and volumetric terms.
Here is the thing, given the novelty of the topic for manufacturers, it’s hard to assess Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) in specific projects, or specific product development. Indeed, a lot of questions need to be understood: what processes can be electrified? Or what are the different fields of activity where AM can serve electrification? What challenges should industrials be ready to face in their adoption of AM for electrification-related applications? Or can they truly stay competitive on the market by integrating AM in their solutions? If yes, how do we measure it?
These are just a couple of questions that the next Additive Talks session ambitions to address. Entitled, “How does Additive Manufacturing serve Electrification?”, the next panel is set to take place on March 15th, from 03.30 pm to 04.30 pm CET (9.30 am to 10.30 am New York time).
Around this virtual table, one will find:
Dr. Amy Elliott is a scientific leader in the field of inkjet-based 3D printing of metals and ceramics, a technology that is expected to enhance and transform advanced manufacturing in the automotive, aerospace, and power generating sectors. Her ability to produce innovative solutions across diverse disciplines as well as work with multi-disciplinary teams, makes her one of Oak Ridge National Laboratory‘s most accomplished innovators where she leads robotics and intelligent systems research. She holds numerous patents and has co-authored more than 50 publications in her field including three books. She also maintains leadership positions in professional societies, conferences, and standards committees related to inkjet 3D printing. Dr. Elliott’s accomplishments include co-leading the development of novel inkjet fluids for the 3D printing of composite layup tools and the development of inkjet 3D printing of complex neutron collimators. Her inventions have been licensed by industry and have won prestigious awards including the R&D 100 Award.
ORNL’s mission has grown and expanded through the years, and now it is at the forefront of supercomputing, advanced manufacturing, materials research, neutron science, clean energy, and national security. With 4,200 staff, 3,000 guest researchers, 20 user facilities, and a budget of approximately $1.2 billion, ORNL supports the Department of Energy’s mission through six major scientific competencies in energy, neutron science, high-performance computing, complex biological systems, materials research, and national security.
Danny Lloyd is the Lead Manufacturing Engineer at Qdot, heading manufacturing research and development. His experience with AM has a wide breadth across multiple sectors, applications, and technologies; he was previously the Additive Manufacturing Lead at Arrival, and before that at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) as a Research Engineer.
Qdot Technology, a spinout of Oxford University’s Thermofluids Institute, is developing net-zero battery-fuel cell hybrid powertrains that don’t compromise on range. One of Qdot’s key enablers is their heat management technology, which utilises cutting edge additive manufacturing.
Does this look like a discussion that you do not want to miss? You can already save your spot here.